Shaun Goater is on the shortlist for the vacant managerial post at Vanarama National League North side Southport, according to media reports in England.

The former Manchester City striker gained experience in non-League football during the second half of last season at Evo-Stik Northern Premier Division side Ilkeston.

Goater inherited a side that had lost 15 of their opening 17 matches and, despite some impressive results, was unable to repair the damage as Ilkeston were relegated to the Evo-Stik First Division.

Although Goater has said he is happy to remain at the club, despite their financial difficulties, a move to Southport would represent an attractive opportunity for the 47-year-old Bermudian.

Mark Wright, the former England and Liverpool defender — who managed Southport from 1999 to 2001, has also been linked with the job.

Wright has previously managed Oxford United, Chester City and Peterborough United, although he has not been in charge of a club since he left Maltese side Floriana in 2012.

Goater, who now lives in Greater Manchester, stepped down as coach of Premier Division side North Village in 2013 after four seasons with his boyhood club. He led Village to six trophies — the league title, three Friendship Trophy titles and two Dudley Eve Trophy titles. Goater turned down the Bermuda coach’s job on a temporary basis before the appointment of Andrew Bascome.